Question

Differences in cyanide production may affect the total number of clover plants growing in different areas. Describe how you would use quadrats in an investigation to determine whether or not there is a difference in the number of clover plants in two large areas of equal size.

Answer 1

Quadrats are used for random sampling in each area to count clover plants and estimate population size and density. The results between areas are then compared.

Step-by-step explanation:

To investigate whether there is a difference in the number of clover plants producing cyanide in two large areas of equal size, you would use quadrats to conduct random sampling.

Firstly, determine the size of your quadrat based on the density and size of clover plants. Then, use a method like a random number table to place these quadrats randomly within each area. Record the number of clover plants within each quadrat. Perform this process several times to obtain enough data.

Later, calculate the average count from all quadrats to estimate the total population size and population density of clover plants in both areas.

Finally, compare the results between the two areas to see if there are significant differences in clover plant populations which might be attributed to differences in cyanide production.